The reported decision would see TKMS’s Type 212CD chosen over South Korea’s KSS-III Batch-II, dealing a setback to Hanwha Ocean after an intense, nearly yearlong competition for one of Canada’s largest-ever military procurement programs.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to formally announce the preferred bidder in Halifax, Nova Scotia, later Monday before departing for a NATO summit in Türkiye. His office had not publicly confirmed the reported selection as of publication.
The selection, if confirmed, would open exclusive negotiations with TKMS rather than immediately result in a final contract. Canada has said it aims to sign a contract for the new fleet by 2028 and receive the first submarine by 2035.
The Canadian Patrol Submarine Project is aimed at replacing the Royal Canadian Navy’s aging Victoria-class fleet with up to 12 conventionally powered submarines capable of operating across the Arctic, Atlantic and Pacific.
Canada identified TKMS and Hanwha Ocean as the project’s two qualified suppliers in August 2025 after assessing their capabilities, construction capacity and delivery schedules.
TKMS offered the Type 212CD, which is being developed for the German and Norwegian naval forces. Germany and Norway promoted the proposal as an opportunity for Canada to join a common submarine program with two NATO allies and Arctic partners.
The outcome marks a setback for Hanwha Ocean, which had mounted an extensive campaign highlighting the KSS-III Batch-II’s long-range capabilities, delivery schedule and proposed investments in Canadian industry.
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